Motorcycle Certification

The primary goal of the Basic Rider Course is to provide an introduction to the fundamentals
of safe, responsible motorcycling. This includes the knowledge and skills that lead
to licensing and motorcycle operation on streets and highways.

The 16-hour Basic Rider Course is designed for beginning riders and was developed
by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Instructors are certified by the MSF and
Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). The course consists of six hours
of classroom and ten hours of on-cycle instruction. The Basic Rider Course covers
preparing to ride, turning, shifting and braking, street strategies, special situations,
increasing riding skills, maintenance, and insurance.

The Basic Rider Course is designed to prepare riders for entry into the complex world
of traffic. The 16-hour course consists of five classroom units and 17 riding exercises,
along with evaluation components. Courses are scheduled in a variety of formats, including
four-day, three-day, and weekend. Nicolet College offers morning, afternoon, evening,
and weekend classes. Participants with little or no previous riding experience are
strongly encouraged to enroll in the four-day format.

In the Basic Rider Course, you will learn:

To have more fun by riding your motorcycle safely

The basics: what to wear, how to start and stop your motorcycle, and motorcycle controls

Street strategies to avoid trouble and stay safe

How to maneuver your motorcycle in tough situations

Need more reasons to take this course?

Upon successful completion of the course you will receive a MV3575 Motorcycle Test
Skills Waiver Authorization and will not have to take the skills/road test at the
Department of Transportation.

Many insurance companies offer discounts on motorcycle premiums to students who have
successfully completed a Rider Course. Be sure to ask your insurance agent.